Come learn a traditional garden weaving project made from locally grown willow - no metal, no plastic and 100% biodegradable. Historically, farmers and gardeners would have tended a willow or hazel coppice (or had access to plentiful coppiced hedgerows) to harvest from each winter that provided a plethora of long flexible whips for weaving. They knew how to make trellises, protective cages and supports, hurdles and waddle fences all from renewable resources in their environment. This is your chance to take a step back in time and weave a little piece of history. Beautiful and functional. 

How long will my plant support last? If you bring your cage in for the winter, you should be able to rely on it for 2 growing seasons. We are using fresh untreated materials and they will naturally deteriorate. Natural weaving materials are meant to return to the Earth - but we carry with us the skills to make them anew when needed.

What does “coppice” mean? Coppicing is a traditional woodland management technique that dates back to the Stone Age. It involves pruning/cutting trees at their base to create a short ‘stool’ where many new smaller shoots will grow. The trees are cut or coppiced on a cycle from 1-10 years depending on the species and desired material. You can recognize a coppiced tree by the many thin trunks or ‘poles’ at its base. Many trees can be coppiced for production - hazelnut and willow are two common species in the PNW.

DIMENSIONS: Plant supports will be approximately 16 inches in diameter and between 20 & 24 inches tall.

DISCLAIMER: Working with willow requires significant hand strength. This project is typically done working on the ground/floor. We can offer some accommodations but may still be challenging for those with lower body issues.

Minimum age: 18

Class size maximum: 8 students | Class size minimum: 4 students

Bellevue Botanical Gardens will be managing registration. DETAILS COMING SOON